Release Notes for Catalyst GigaStack Gigabit Interface Converter

October 25, 1999

These release notes describe the features and caveats for the GigaStack Gigabit Interface Converter (GBIC) that works with IOS Release 11.2(8.2)SA6 or later. These release notes also contain important information about the device.

Introduction

The GigaStack GBIC allows you to stack up to nine switches to form an independent backbone that can be managed with a single IP address. This stack gives the appearance of a single large switch for network management purposes. You can also form a point-to-point link between two switches. The GigaStack GBIC supports one full-duplex link (in a point-to-point link) or up to eight half-duplex links (in a stack configuration) to other Gigabit Ethernet devices.

The GigaStack GBIC can add port density to a Catalyst 3500 XL or Catalyst 2900 XL network. You can install the GigaStack GBIC in a 3500 XL switch or into a 1000BaseX module that resides in a modular 2900 XL switch. When installed in a 3500 XL switch or a 2900 XL module, the GigaStack GBIC supports 1000BaseX connections. The GigaStack GBIC autonegotiates the duplex settings of each port to maximize the bandwidth for your configuration.

Installation Notes

Caution Do not use standard IEEE 1394 cables with the GigaStack GBIC. You must use one of the Cisco proprietary cables (CAB-GS-50CM or CAB-GS-1M). If you use any other cable, you will not have connectivity.

Caution Do not use the GigaStack GBIC with standard IEEE 1394 equipment. You might damage the equipment or lose data.

Important Notes

Types of Loops Not Permitted

Do not create a loop in a stack configuration within a single GBIC. A loop occurs when one of the following conditions occurs:

•A GigaStack GBIC port within a daisy-chain stack connection is connected to a GigaStack GBIC port of another device in the stack that already has a GigaStack GBIC port connected to a device in that stack; both ports are in the same stack. See .

Figure 1

Incorrect Cabling of Switches in a Stack

•A single GigaStack cable is inserted in port 1 and port 2 of the same GigaStack GBIC. See .

Figure 2 Incorrect Cabling in a Single Switch

A loop causes excessive collision errors on the port and might cause the link to become unstable. This instability decreases performance on the links, and communication between the switches in the stack is adversely affected. For proper configuration scenarios, see the Catalyst GigaStack Gigabit Interface Converter Installation Guide.

Note You can form a redundant link by connecting two different GigaStack GBICs within the same switch. See the Catalyst GigaStack Gigabit Interface Converter Installation Guide.

Maximum GigaStack GBICs in a Daisy-Chain Configuration

The maximum number of GigaStack GBICs allowed in a daisy-chain configuration is nine.

Switch Software Requirement

To use the GigaStack GBIC with a 3500 XL switch or 2900 XL modular switch, ensure that the switch is running IOS Release 11.2(8.2)SA6 or later. For software upgrade procedures, see the Release Notes for Cisco IOS Release 11.2(8.2)SA6.

Caveats

The Catalyst GigaStack Gigabit Interface Converter Installation Guide states that the GigaStack GBIC LED turns amber if you use a cable other than GigaStack cables. This function has changed. The LED remains dark if you use a cable other than the GigaStack cables.

Catalyst 3500 and Catalyst 2900 XL Software Caveats

For a list of Catalyst 3500 and Catalyst 2900 software caveats, refer to the Release Notes for Cisco IOS Release 11.2(8.2)SA6.

Related Documentation

The product documentation for the GigaStack GBIC, 3500 XL switches, and the 2900 XL switches is as follows:

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